Azalea Care

Discover The Pleasure of Azalea Plants

Plant enthusiasts have selectively bred azaleas for hundreds of years. This human selection has
produced over 10,000 different cultivars which are propagated by cuttings. Azalea seeds can also be collected and germinated. Azaleas are generally slow-growing and do best in well drained acidic soil. Fertilizer needs are low; some species need regular pruning. Azaleas are native to several continents including Asia, Europe and North America. They are planted abundantly as ornamentals in the southeastern US.

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Soil - Acidic, moist and well drained. Use an Azalea/Camellia planting mix or peat moss when conditioning soil.

Light - Best in filtered shade. Azaleas appreciate good air circulation. “Sun” azaleas can tolerate more sun, but are best in a partially sunny area in the hot valley areas.

Water - Keep plants evenly moist. Never allow soil to become too dry or too wet.

Fertilizer - Use a fertilizer for acid loving plants once a month after flowering until buds form. Do not fertilize when plant is in bud or bloom.

Maintenance - Prune to shape after flowering, but before July when buds begin to form. Tip pruning will encourage a more compact, bushy plant.

Planting Tips - Be sure to plant new plants about 1” higher than the existing soil level. Dig the planting hole at least 2-3 times the width of the container. Azaleas are shallow rooted. It is best not to cultivate around the root area.

Possible Problems with Azalea Plants

Wilting and dying parts of plant - Poor drainage, root rot. Well drained, well amended soil is a must. Be careful not to plant new plants too deeply.

Bleaching or burning in leaf center - Sunburn. Provide protection from sun or relocate to a shadier area.

Lanky, sparsely blooming plants - Too much shade.

Burning of leaf tips and edges - Salt build-up in soil. Leach soil occasionally by deep watering.

Yellow leaves with green veins - Iron chlorosis. Apply chelated iron or iron sulphate.

Large portions of leaves turning brown - Lack of water. Keep plants evenly moist.